Synonyms of dominate

dominate

verb

ˈdä-mə-ˌnāt 

1

as in to subdue

to bring under one's control by force of arms

The tyrant used brute force to dominate all countries in the region.

Synonyms & Similar Words

• subdue
• conquer
• subject
• defeat
• overcome
• overpower
• subjugate
• subordinate
• enslave
• vanquish
• reduce
• pacify
• crush
• beat
• smash
• annihilate
• suppress
• lick
• prevail (over)
• triumph (over)
• whip
• quell
• rout
• mow (down)
• thrash
• trounce
• clobber
• smother
• quash
• repress
• silence
• squelch
• drub
• squash
• snuff (out)
• put down
• crack down (on)
• wallop
• break
• skunk
• clamp down (on)

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• liberate
• free
• emancipate
• release
• spring
• discharge
• enfranchise
• unbind
• manumit
• unfetter
• unchain
• uncage

2

as in to overlook

to look down on

The remains of an ancient fortress dominate the town.

Synonyms & Similar Words

• overlook
• front
• face
• command

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of dominate

The researchers point out that the mat was dominated by compounds derived from photosynthetic pigments, while the extract’s porphyrins were overwhelmingly heme-related. — New Atlas, 2 Nov. 2026

For a unit that is expected to dominate each week no matter the opponent, the performance Sunday was not up to the standard. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Nov. 2026

After dominating through their first five games, Walker has 105 yards on 35 carries over the last two games. — Kansas City Star, 2 Nov. 2026

The lavish event came three days before voting ends in the midterm elections, which have been dominated by voter concerns about the cost of living. — Katherine Doyle, Washington Post, 1 Nov. 2026